Care with compassion: Department of Pediatrics making a difference in maternal health

For many new parents, the early days and weeks after childbirth are filled with overwhelming joy and uncertainty, along with the pressure to “get it right.” Pediatricians at the University of Louisville School of Medicine are working to ensure that new parents don’t have to manage these moments alone. 

Through a growing focus on breastfeeding medicine, the Department of Pediatrics is strengthening the connection between maternal and infant health, recognizing that supporting a baby starts with supporting the mother.

Breastfeeding is widely recognized as one of the most effective forms of preventative medicine, offering benefits for both infants and mothers. While more than 80% of women in the United States begin breastfeeding, that number drops significantly to just 25% by six months. Behind that drop-off are real challenges such as pain, fatigue, return-to-work pressures and a lack of consistent, informed support.

“From sleep and growth to feeding, pediatricians are some of the first voices parents hear as they navigate how to raise a healthy baby,” shared Sheridan Langford, associate professor of pediatrics. “As pediatricians, we have a responsibility to not only care for the baby, but to support the mother as she navigates those early decisions.”

To better meet that need, Langford, who is also an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), developed the Breastfeeding Medicine Distinction Track, an innovative training pathway for pediatric residents. The program equips future pediatricians with the skills to provide compassionate, evidence-based guidance, helping mothers feel heard, supported and empowered regardless of how their feeding journey unfolds.

For current fellow and recent track graduate, Sarah Williams, the track offered a deeper understanding of the challenges many mothers face. As a former neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse, Williams saw firsthand how critical early support can be, but also how inconsistent it can feel.

“Through quarterly journal clubs, we evaluate the latest research in breastfeeding medicine and ensure we have the skills to properly assess studies,” Williams said. “We also worked to integrate the American Academy of Pediatrics breastfeeding curriculum into our newborn nursery rotation, so every resident gains exposure to how to support mothers during those first critical days.” 

That expanded training ensures more pediatricians are prepared to meet families with empathy and clarity whether a mother is exclusively breastfeeding, supplementing or faced with unexpected challenges. It also helps normalize conversations that can often feel isolating for new parents. 

At its core, the distinction track is about more than developing stronger clinical expertise; it’s about building trust.

“Residents gain confidence in how to have these conversations in a way that is supportive, not judgmental,” Langford said. “Because every family’s situation is different, and every mother deserves to feel empowered in her choices.”

The Department of Pediatrics is redefining what early care looks like, placing equal emphasis on the well-being of both mother and baby. It’s a model rooted in compassion, where listening is just as important as clinical knowledge, and where small moments of support can have a lasting impact on a family’s health.

To learn more about the Department of Pediatrics Distinction Tracks, visit our website.